Breaking a Sweat: Exercising After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Imagine waking up from a wisdom tooth extraction, drowsy and sore, but with an overwhelming desire to hit the gym. You may be wondering, “Can I workout after wisdom teeth extraction?” After all, maintaining a consistent fitness routine is important for many people. However, undergoing a dental procedure can be physically and mentally draining. In this article, we will delve into the topic of working out after wisdom teeth extraction and provide you with all the essential information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or just starting your fitness journey, join us as we explore the do’s and don’ts of post-oral surgery exercise.

1.

The Importance of Rest and Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

After having your wisdom teeth removed, it is important to give your body time to rest and recover before jumping back into your normal routine, especially when it comes to engaging in physical activity. Many people wonder if they can resume their workout routine after wisdom teeth extraction, but it is crucial to understand the importance of proper rest and recovery first.

Wisdom teeth extraction is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or more of your third molars. This type of surgery can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following the procedure. The trauma caused by the extraction can also weaken your body’s ability to heal itself, making it vulnerable to infection or complications. This is why taking some time off from intense exercise after wisdom teeth removal is necessary.

Resting after surgery allows your body to heal properly and reduces the risk of developing complications such as dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot at the surgical site comes loose or dissolves before the wound has had a chance to heal. Dry socket can be extremely painful and delay healing.

During rest and recovery, you should also avoid strenuous activities that may increase blood flow or raise your blood pressure, as this can disrupt proper healing and cause bleeding at the surgical site.

2.

How Soon Can I Workout After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

The amount of time you need to take off from exercising after wisdom teeth extraction will vary depending on how well you are healing and how intense your exercise routine usually is. Most dentists recommend taking at least 3-5 days off from any physical activity following surgery.

During this initial period of recovery, focus on getting plenty of rest and consume a soft-food diet that does not require much chewing. This will help prevent irritation or injury to the surgical site while also providing essential nutrients for healing.

After one week post-surgery, you can gradually start to incorporate light exercise into your routine. Start by taking short walks or doing gentle stretches to get your body moving. If you experience any pain, discomfort, or bleeding during these activities, take it as a sign to slow down and give yourself more time to heal.

3.

Can I Do High-Intensity Workouts After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

High-intensity workouts should be avoided for at least two weeks after wisdom teeth extraction. This includes activities such as weightlifting, sprinting, and any other high-impact exercises.

The suction created in your mouth during these types of exercises can dislodge the blood clot at the surgical site and lead to dry socket. Additionally, the increased blood flow and heart rate associated with high-intensity workouts could cause excess bleeding and delay healing.

It is best to gradually ease into high-intensity workouts after your initial post-surgery recovery period and listen to your body’s signals. If you experience any pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately and give yourself more time to heal.

4.

Exercises to Avoid After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Besides high-intensity workouts, there are some specific types of exercises that should be avoided after wisdom teeth extraction.

Activities that require a lot of jaw movement or put pressure on the mouth should be avoided in the first week after surgery. This includes exercises that involve biting down hard on an object, such as crunches or push-ups with mouthguards.

You should also avoid exercises that require jumping or bouncing movements as this can increase blood pressure and disrupt proper healing in the surgical site.

5.

Tips for Exercising Safely After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

If you are eager to get back into your workout routine after wisdom teeth extraction, here are some tips to ensure a safe return:

– Listen to your body: If you experience any pain, discomfort, or bleeding, take it as a sign to slow down and give yourself more time to heal.
– Ease into it: Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually build back up to your usual routine over the course of several weeks.
– Avoid exerting pressure on the surgical site: To prevent dislodging the blood clot, avoid activities that require you to hold your breath or create suction in your mouth.
– Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after exercise to keep your body hydrated and help with healing.
– Wait for clearance from your dentist: If you had any complications during wisdom teeth extraction, or if you are experiencing prolonged pain or bleeding, consult with your dentist before resuming physical activity.

6.

In conclusion, wisdom teeth extraction is a common surgery that requires proper rest and recovery afterwards. While it is understandable to be eager to get back into your workout routine, it is important to listen to your body and give yourself enough time to heal.

Avoid high-intensity workouts in the first two weeks after surgery, and gradually ease back into your routine over the course of several weeks. If you experience any pain or complications during recovery, consult with your dentist before resuming physical activity. Remember that

Overview of Wisdom Teeth Extraction and Recovery

After the removal of your wisdom teeth, it is important to allow your body enough time to heal properly. The recovery process can vary from person to person, but typically takes about 7-10 days for most individuals. During this time, there are certain activities that should be avoided in order to prevent complications and promote proper healing.

The Importance of Resting After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

One of the most important things you can do after wisdom teeth extraction is to get adequate rest. Your body needs time to heal and by resting you are allowing it to do just that. It may be tempting to jump back into your regular routine, including working out, but it is crucial to give your body a break in order for it to properly repair itself.

The Risks of Working Out Too Soon After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

While exercising is generally beneficial for both physical and mental health, working out too soon after wisdom teeth extraction can actually cause harm. The main risk associated with exercising too soon after the procedure is bleeding or dislodging blood clots at the extraction site, which can lead to a painful condition known as dry socket. Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms at the extraction site becomes dislodged or dissolves prematurely, exposing nerves and bone. This can cause intense pain and delay the healing process.

In addition to dry socket, working out too soon after wisdom teeth extraction can also increase swelling and discomfort. This is because exercise causes an increase in blood flow, which can interfere with the blood clot formation at the extraction site. It may also cause increased bruising and prolonged healing time.

When Can I Safely Resume My Workouts?

The timeline for when it is safe to resume working out after wisdom teeth extraction will vary depending on individual circumstances. It is important to follow the advice of your dentist or oral surgeon, as well as paying attention to your own body’s needs. In general, it is recommended to wait about a week before resuming any physical activity.

If your wisdom teeth extraction was a simple procedure with minimal complications, such as no impaction or difficulty removing the teeth, you may be able to resume light exercises after 2-3 days. However, for more complex extractions or if you experience excessive bleeding or swelling, it is best to wait a full week before attempting any physical activity.

Types of Workouts That Are Safe After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Once you have received clearance from your dentist or oral surgeon to resume workouts, it is important to start slow and gradually increase intensity. In the first few days after surgery, stick to low-impact exercises such as walking or light yoga. As your body continues to heal and you feel more comfortable, you can gradually incorporate more strenuous exercise.

Avoid any activities that require you to lie flat on your back or put pressure on your jaw. These include activities like bench press, push-ups, and sit-ups. Instead, focus on exercises that keep your head elevated and place minimal strain on your jaw muscles. Swimming can be a good option as it provides cardiovascular benefits without putting pressure on the mouth.

Post-Workout Care for Healing Wisdom Teeth Extraction Sites

Even when you have received clearance from your dentist or oral surgeon to resume working out after wisdom teeth extraction, it is important to continue taking care of the extraction sites. This includes following any post-operative instructions given by your healthcare provider, such as rinsing with warm salt water and avoiding hard or crunchy foods.

It is also important to listen to your body and stop exercising if you experience any pain or discomfort around the extraction sites. If bleeding occurs, rest and apply gentle pressure with clean gauze until it subsides. If the bleeding persists or becomes excessive, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.

In summary, while staying active is important for overall health and well-being, exercising after wisdom teeth extraction requires caution and patience. In order to ensure proper healing and avoid complications, it is crucial to give your body enough time to rest and recover before resuming physical activity. Remember to follow post-operative instructions provided by your healthcare provider and listen to your body’s needs. With proper care and caution, you can safely resume your workouts after wisdom teeth extraction.

Q: Can I workout after wisdom teeth extraction?
A: It is not recommended to do strenuous physical activities immediately after wisdom teeth extraction.

Q: When can I resume my regular workout routine after wisdom teeth extraction?
A: You can typically resume your regular workout routine two to three days after wisdom teeth extraction, once your pain and swelling have subsided. However, it is best to consult with your dentist for personalized instructions.

Q: What types of exercises should I avoid after wisdom teeth extraction?
A: You should avoid high-intensity activities such as weightlifting, running, and jumping for at least one week after wisdom teeth extraction.

Q: Can I go for a light jog or walk after wisdom teeth extraction?
A: Light physical activities such as walking or jogging at a gentle pace are generally safe to do a few days after wisdom teeth extraction. However, listen to your body and stop if you experience any discomfort or bleeding.

Q: Is it okay to exercise if I still have pain and swelling in my mouth?
A: It is important to give yourself time to heal properly before engaging in exercise. If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your mouth, it is best to wait until those symptoms have significantly improved before working out again. Consult with your dentist if you are unsure about the appropriate timing for resuming physical activities.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally injure my mouth during a workout after wisdom teeth extraction?
A: If you experience any discomfort or bleeding in the area of your recent tooth extraction during a workout, stop immediately and rinse your mouth with saltwater. It is best to avoid direct contact with the surgical site while it heals. If the pain persists, it is advisable to consult with your dentist for further guidance.

In conclusion, it is generally recommended to wait at least 3-4 days before resuming any physical activity after wisdom teeth extraction. This allows for proper healing and reduces the risk of complications. However, every individual may have a different recovery process and it is important to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for personalized advice.

During this recovery period, it is important to keep in mind that rest and proper oral care are crucial for a smooth healing process. Be sure to follow post-operative instructions carefully and avoid strenuous activities that could potentially disrupt the healing process.

Additionally, it is important to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard during workouts after wisdom teeth extraction. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop immediately and consult with your dentist.

While it may be tempting to jump back into your regular workout routine, remember that patience is key when it comes to recovering from wisdom teeth extraction. By gradually easing back into physical activity and taking proper precautions, you can ensure a successful recovery without compromising your fitness goals.

Lastly, always prioritize your oral health over any fitness goals. Ignoring post-operative instructions or pushing yourself too hard during workouts can lead to serious complications such as dry socket or infection. Take the necessary time to fully recover before getting back into your exercise routine.

Author Profile

Avatar
Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.